Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 6

Written Answers. - Prisoner Releases.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

348 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the 20 sentenced IRA prisoners in Portlaoise Prison who were repatriated from Britain qualify for release under the Good Friday Agreement; those, if any, who have had their sentences reviewed; and the release dates, if any, for them. [6736/99]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

The 20 sentenced IRA prisoners in Portlaoise Prison who were repatriated from Britain are considered as qualifying prisoners under the Good Friday Agreement.

Release dates for these prisoners have not yet been set and their sentences have not been reviewed to date. The Government is aware of and fully committed to fulfilling its obligations under the Agreement.